Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these treatments need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
